Pleuronectidae

Pleuronectidae is a family of fishes known as righteye flounders. They are called "righteye flounders" because most species lie on the sea bottom on their left sides, with both eyes on their right sides.

Description

The Pleuronectidae family includes approximately 40 genera with over 100 species. They are found in oceans worldwide, ranging from the Arctic to the Antarctic regions. The body of a Pleuronectidae is highly compressed, adapted for life on the bottom. Both eyes in adults are always on one side of the head, and the left side is usually the blind side. The upper side is generally colorfully patterned, and the lower side is white.

Behavior

Pleuronectidae are carnivorous, feeding on invertebrates and other small sea animals. They have a unique method of swimming; they glide along the sea floor on their sides. This unusual swimming style is an adaptation to their bottom-dwelling life.

Reproduction

The reproduction process of the Pleuronectidae involves the female releasing her eggs into the water, which are then fertilized by the male. The eggs float in the open water and hatch into larvae. The larvae are initially symmetrical, but as they grow, they undergo a metamorphosis where one eye migrates to the other side of the body, resulting in asymmetrical adults.

Economic Importance

Many species of Pleuronectidae, such as the halibut, plaice, and sole, are popular food fishes. They are also important to commercial fisheries, especially in the Northern Hemisphere.

See also

• List of fish families
• Flatfish

References

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